GSK
University of Glasgow | Chemical Biology and Organic Synthesis

Designing smarter linkers for targeted cancer medicines

Many cancer treatments use powerful drugs that can damage healthy cells as well as tumours. Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) offer a more targeted approach by using an antibody to recognise and bind to specific markers on cancer cells, delivering a drug payload into the cells. The antibody and drug are connected by a molecular linker, which plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and effective delivery. The linker must remain stable in the bloodstream to prevent premature drug release, while allowing the payload to be released once inside the target cancer cell.

Jacob’s project will develop new linkers based on peptidomimetics: molecules designed to mimic useful features of peptides while offering greater control over their chemical properties. Through modular synthesis and systematic screening, he will investigate how linker structure affects stability in blood plasma and the ability of enzymes to trigger drug release. This approach will help identify the molecular features that make a linker both robust and selective.

By developing and comparing a wide range of linker designs, the research could establish a flexible platform for selecting linkers suited to different antibody and drug combinations. This could accelerate the development of safer, more effective ADCs for a wider range of cancers, ultimately improving treatment options for patients.